Residents of retirement homes are participating in a new program titled À l'EHPAD !, produced by Au Tableau Productions, which aims to engage candidates for the 2027 presidential election in direct conversation with elderly citizens. The program builds on the success of a previous show called Au Tableau !, where public figures answered questions from children. In the first episode of À l'EHPAD !, Gabriel Attal, a former Prime Minister and former Minister of National Education, visited a DomusVi residence in Suresnes, France, to discuss key political issues with the residents.
Before engaging with the residents, Attal participated in an "aging simulator," a tool designed to help people experience the physical and cognitive challenges of aging. He referred to the residents as his "jury" and addressed a range of topics, including security, juvenile justice, education, and the choice between living at home or in an EHPAD (a French acronym for "Établissement d'Hébergement pour Personnes Âgées Dépendantes," or care facility for dependent elderly individuals). He emphasized the importance of education and the need for better oversight of institutions. During the session, a resident named Chantal asked him about his homosexuality and how it might affect his spouse's role in his life.
When asked about his political alignment, Attal explained that while he originated from the Socialist Party, he now positions himself by economic freedom, which he associated with the right, and individual freedoms, which he linked to the left. He rejected the centrist label, stating it had a "sad" connotation, and expressed a preference for collaboration across the political spectrum. His responses highlighted a blend of left and right-wing principles, focusing on pragmatic solutions rather than strict ideological lines.
The episode featuring Gabriel Attal is available on the YouTube channel of the show, publicsenat.fr, and Ouest-France. The next episode will feature Xavier Bertrand, also filmed in French institutions with personalities of various political inclinations. This ongoing series aims to provide a unique platform for candidates to engage directly with the elderly population, offering insights into their views and priorities.
Presidential Candidates Face Elderly Voters in New Show
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